Clean Air Amendment Act 2024

What this bill does

This bill strengthens Bermuda's air pollution laws by giving government new powers to address bad smells and air quality problems from businesses like factories, spray painting operations, and manure facilities. It creates a formal process for businesses to submit action plans when they cause air pollution and increases fines from $5,000 to $20,000 for violations.

If passed (voted YES)

• Businesses that cause offensive odours or air pollution will be required to install modern equipment and follow government-approved action plans to reduce emissions
• Government inspectors will have stronger enforcement powers, including the ability to take polluting businesses to court and force them to pay up to $5,000 per day until they fix the problem
• New facilities like manure treatment plants and outdoor spray painting operations will need permits and must meet stricter air quality standards

If rejected (voted NO)

• Current air pollution laws remain unchanged with lower penalties and fewer enforcement options for government
• No formal process would exist to require businesses to create action plans when they cause air quality problems
• Offensive odours and air pollution complaints would continue to be handled under existing, less comprehensive rules

Who it affects

This primarily affects businesses that operate facilities which may cause air pollution or offensive smells, such as factories, spray painting shops, and waste treatment facilities. It also benefits residents living near these operations who may experience improved air quality and fewer nuisance odours.